ENP STAFF REPORTSnews@eastniagarapost.com
The first day of classes at DeSales last Wednesday was a big day, not only for the students, but also for the teachers beginning their tenure at the Catholic elementary school in Lockport as Principal Sister Carol Ann Kleindins welcomed four new faculty members to the DeSales family.

"These individuals possess strong credentials and a passion for teaching," she said. "These qualities are indicative of the high quality education we deliver here."

Lori Asher is the new middle school Social Studies teacher for DeSales. She earned her Bachelors in Social Studies Education from Canisius College, her Masters degree in Curriculum & Instruction from George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. Originally from Lockport, Asher has over 10 years of teaching experience. Asher and her husband, Timothy have one daughter.

Kim Norris is enjoying a bit of a homecoming as the new fifth-grade teacher at DeSales, having graduated from the Catholic school in 2003. Norris has a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education from Niagara University and earned her Masters Degree in Literacy from Niagara University. She resides in Lockport with her husband Andrew and son.

Josh Guay will be teaching Spanish to students from preschool through grade 8. Guay earned his Bachelors degree from Elmira College where he studied Spanish and Early Childhood Education. He is currently attending Niagara University where he plans to earn his Masters degree in TESOL.

Katie Merrill is also a familiar face in the halls of DeSales, having graduated from DeSales Middle School in 1998. She went on to pursue a Bachelors degree from the University of Notre Dame in English with a minor in Art History. Merrill has been a frequent substitute teacher for DeSales and even worked for a period as their primary school Art Teacher. Most recently Merrill was the Primary Art Counselor at the Park School's Summer Camp. When she is not in the classroom, she enjoys acting and singing, often at the Historic Palace Theatre.

DeSales is Eastern Niagara County’s only Catholic School, serving over 300 students in Early Childhood Education through Eighth grade. For more information call 433-6422 or visit www.desalescatholicschool.org.